Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | HK$150–300 | HK$500–1,200 |
| Food | HK$100–200 | HK$250–500 |
| Transport | HK$30–60 | HK$80–150 |
| Activities | HK$50–150 | HK$200–500 |
| Drinks | HK$20–50 | HK$100–250 |
| Daily Total | HK$350–760 | HK$1,130–2,600 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Getting Around
- Get an Octopus card at any MTR station (HK$150 incl. HK$100 credit). Works on MTR, buses, ferries, minibuses, 7-Eleven, and restaurants
- MTR is fast, clean, and covers most of Hong Kong. Google Maps is accurate for transit. Buses reach areas the MTR doesn't
- Star Ferry (HK$3.70) crosses the harbor. Taxis are metered and honest — flag fall HK$27. Red taxis go everywhere, green only in New Territories
Connectivity
- Pick up a tourist SIM at the airport — 1O1O, 3HK, or China Mobile offer 8-day unlimited data SIMs for HK$88–120
- eSIMs from Airalo or Ubigi work on most modern phones. WhatsApp is the main messaging app in Hong Kong
- Free WiFi (Wi-Fi.HK) is available at MTR stations, government buildings, and many cafes. Coverage is good
Money
- HK dollar is pegged to USD (1 USD ≈ HK$7.80). Cards accepted widely but many street food stalls and small shops are cash-only
- ATMs are everywhere — HSBC and Hang Seng ATMs accept foreign cards with reasonable fees
- Tipping is not expected at casual restaurants. Some add 10% service charge automatically. Round up taxi fares
Visa & Entry
- Most Western nationalities get 90-day visa-free entry. UK nationals get 180 days. No advance registration required
- Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is connected by Airport Express (HK$115, 24 min to Hong Kong Station)
- Hong Kong is a separate immigration zone from mainland China — you need a separate visa for China
Health & Safety
- Hong Kong is very safe. Petty crime is rare. The biggest risk is heat exhaustion during summer hiking (30–35°C with high humidity)
- No vaccinations required. Tap water is safe. Pharmacies (Watsons, Mannings) are on every block
- Typhoon season (Jun–Oct) — check the Hong Kong Observatory for signals. Signal 8+ means the city shuts down
Packing Tips
- Hong Kong is extremely humid — pack light, breathable fabrics. AC is aggressive indoors so bring a light layer for malls and MTR
- Comfortable walking shoes — the city is hilly with lots of stairs. Waterproof shoes in rainy season (Apr–Sep)
- A compact umbrella is essential year-round. Small daypack for hikes. Flip-flops for beach islands
Cultural tips
Dining Etiquette
At dim sum, pour tea for others before yourself. Tap two fingers on the table to say thank you when someone pours for you. This gesture originates from Emperor Qianlong's secret visits to teahouses.
Speed & Efficiency
Hong Kong moves fast — don't block escalators (stand right, walk left), don't stop suddenly on busy sidewalks, and have your Octopus card ready before reaching the turnstile.
Language
Cantonese is the main language but English is widely spoken, especially in business and tourist areas. "M goi" means both "thank you" and "excuse me" — the most useful Cantonese phrase.
Superstitions
The number 4 sounds like "death" in Cantonese — many buildings skip the 4th floor. The number 8 means prosperity. These beliefs are taken seriously in business and daily life.
Lai See (Red Envelopes)
During Chinese New Year, married people give lai see (red envelopes with money) to unmarried people and service workers. If visiting during CNY, have small bills ready for building security and cleaners.
Environmental Awareness
Bring a reusable bag — plastic bags cost HK$1 each. Bring a water bottle — refill stations exist throughout the MTR system. Hong Kong is increasingly eco-conscious.
